Episode 7 of Inside Tech Minds, Addleshaw Goddard’s technology podcast, explores the growing importance of data centres as critical digital infrastructure and the role they play in supporting AI, cloud computing and the wider digital economy. Host Carly Gulliver is joined by guests Karen Rowe and Arun Visweswaran to discuss why demand for data centres is accelerating globally and the challenges and opportunities this creates for investors, developers and businesses.

The discussion examines the rapid growth in energy demand driven by data centres, the pressures this places on national grids and the innovative approaches emerging to deliver resilient, low-carbon power. Karen and Arun explore how governments and developers are responding to infrastructure constraints, the rise of microgrid solutions, and the increasing importance of data localisation requirements across different jurisdictions. They also discuss the contractual, cybersecurity and operational risks businesses must consider when relying on data centre providers, including business interruption, crisis preparedness and data governance.

The episode highlights why data centres have become a strategic priority for businesses, investors and policymakers as AI adoption continues to grow. It considers the balance between digital innovation, energy security and regulatory compliance, while exploring how data infrastructure is evolving to support future technologies. Karen and Arun also share practical insights on resilience planning, investment opportunities and the key issues boards and leadership teams should be addressing as the data centre market continues to expand.